We so appreciated our time at Villa Santa Barbara that I first started to struggle with fancy superlatives to describe our experience. Truth is, that would have misrepresented what the real attraction is about this place. It was friendly, colorful, comfortable, and unpretentious…in other words…just right. Doing business with Barb in advance of our stay was a snap. She was flexible and accommodating as our itinerary took a little while to nail down and was able to address all of our questions and concerns well in advance of our arrival. Transfers between the Villa and the airport, arranged by the hosts, were fairly priced, seamlessly efficient and offered a welcome piece of mind from the moment we hit the ground. We found our Junior Suite to be cheerful, clean, well tended and perfectly appointed, clearly put together with love and personal touches. Although the smallest of the room options, it had everything we needed for our two week stay. Its placement on the property might have suggested a potential lack of privacy at first glance, but the hosts, staff and other guests moved about respectfully and unobtrusively. In fact, our “neighbors” were so easily engaged and lovely to be with, it was a joy to spend pool time and shade time with each other from time to time. The Villa was easily accessible to town, the barrio, buses and boats; and although beaches were a short ride away, we found Barra de Navidad to be safe, welcoming and so worthwhile that we did not feel the need to wander too far. Villa Santa Barbara is about real, easy-going people, bright and cozy spaces, intuitive and generous hospitality. It is a reflection of its community – warm and easy to embrace.